From the recording emmylou

The acoustics and 70s organ do a lot of the heavy lifting on "As The Years Roll By." We tried adding a resonator and wound up keeping it. Dave's electric work, as usual, sets the mood. I usually worry about drums on ballads. I've had situations in major studios where the song's lyrical characters get lost with the drums and overproduction. But that's not the case here...I really like how this turned out. This one goes back to those last high school days and that girl you wanted as more than a friend but it didn't happen. Then years later you meet up.

Lyrics

I’ve had a few bad romances (There’s been a few)
I’ve been down a few wrong roads
So I wouldn't think to ever blame you
If you wanted just to let this go

But if you’re thinkin’ second chances (bettin’)
I’m good for one more rodeo
I can be the one standing with you
Make the nights feel not so cold

Oh, I ain’t gettin any younger
But baby there’s always time (still)
For a sunset I’ll be watching (keep)
For a dance in the pale moonlight

There’s a chill like in late December
Disappears in your smiling eyes
Still the girl that I remember
Even as the years roll by (go by)

Solo (ohhhs)

I remember hanging out forever (together)
And how you called me your best friend
Just as wild and free together (forever)
Free birds in the summer wind

There’s a night that I still remember
Feels like it was yesterday
Slow rides on the ferris wheel
Young love at the big parade

Repeat Ch 2x